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S A F E T Y F I R S T
HAZMAT Awareness
Learning Manual
Edition 2
June 2008
This learning manual has been published for use within CFA.
It has been developed having regard to current CFA occupational health and
safety manual handling guidelines and Safety First principles.
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First published November 2002 in Australia by Learning Systems, Learning and Development, CFA Headquarters,
8 Lakeside Drive, Burwood East, Victoria 3151.
CFA 2008
Other than that permitted under the Copyright Act1968, no part of this publication may be reproduced by any means
without written permission from the Country Fire Authority Victoria. Enquiries should be addressed to the publisher.
For any matters relating to this publication, contact: Manager Learning Systems, Learning and Development, CFA
Headquarters, 8 Lakeside Drive, Burwood East, Victoria 3151.
CFA acknowledges the assistance and contributions of its members, volunteer and staff, in the
development of this learning manual.
S A F E T Y F I R S T
HAZMAT Awareness
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Edn 2 June 2008 S A F E T Y F I R S T i
HAZMAT Awareness
Contents
Foreword ...................................................................................................................................1
Overview ...................................................................................................................................3
Introduction ...............................................................................................................................................3
Relationship to Competency Standards ...................................................................................................3
Outcomes .................................................................................................................................................3
Prerequisites .............................................................................................................................................3
Co-requisites ............................................................................................................................................3
Related Resources ...................................................................................................................................4
How You Might Be Assessed ....................................................................................................................4
Chapter 1: Emergency Management.......................................................................................5
Classifying Hazardous Materials ..............................................................................................................5
Emergency Management Structure ..........................................................................................................6
Incident Controller ....................................................................................................................................9
Summary .................................................................................................................................................11
Self Assessment ......................................................................................................................................13
Chapter 2: Preparedness .......................................................................................................15Environment and Occupancy .................................................................................................................15
Pre-incident Plan.....................................................................................................................................15
Location of the Incident ..........................................................................................................................16
Hazards at an Incident ............................................................................................................................17
Conducting a Hazard Assessment .........................................................................................................18
Visual Signs and Indicators ....................................................................................................................19
Summary .................................................................................................................................................21
Self Assessment ......................................................................................................................................23
Chapter 3: Responding to a Hazardous Materials Incident ................................................25
Approaching the Scene ..........................................................................................................................25
Exposure Hazards ...................................................................................................................................29
Decontamination ....................................................................................................................................33
Securing the Scene ................................................................................................................................34
Establishing Incident Control ..................................................................................................................36
Summary .................................................................................................................................................39
Self Assessment ......................................................................................................................................41
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ii S A F E T Y F I R S T Edn 2 June 2008
HAZMAT Awareness
Contents
Chapter 4: Hazardous Materials Identification ....................................................................45
Importance of Identification ....................................................................................................................45
Naming and Numbering Conventions ....................................................................................................47
Container Markings and Colours ............................................................................................................50
Dangerous Goods Class Labels ............................................................................................................52
Packing Groups ......................................................................................................................................63
Placards and Labels ...............................................................................................................................63
The HAZCHEM Code (Emergency Action Code) ...................................................................................67
Transport Documentation .......................................................................................................................72
Storage Manifest (Emergency Information Book) ..................................................................................73
ADR RID ..................................................................................................................................................74
National Fire Protection Association Code (USA) ..................................................................................75
Summary .................................................................................................................................................77
Self Assessment......................................................................................................................................79
Chapter 5: Dealing with Hazardous Materials ......................................................................83
Dangerous Goods Initial Emergency Response Guide .........................................................................83
HAZMAT Incident Assessment (HIA Form/Board) ..................................................................................84
HAZMAT Action Guides (HAG) ...............................................................................................................86
Electronic Databases ..............................................................................................................................88
Safety Data Sheets ..................................................................................................................................88
Safe Storage and Handling Information Cards .......................................................................................90
Emergency Procedure Guides ...............................................................................................................90
Technical Advice .....................................................................................................................................91
Summary .................................................................................................................................................93
Self Assessment......................................................................................................................................95
Self Assessment Answers .....................................................................................................97
Chapter 1: Emergency Management ......................................................................................................97
Chapter 2: Preparedness........................................................................................................................97
Chapter 3: Responding to a Hazardous Materials Incident .................................................................100
Chapter 4: Hazardous Materials Identification .....................................................................................102
Chapter 5: Dealing with Hazardous Materials ......................................................................................104
Glossary of Terms ................................................................................................................105
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Edn 2 June 2008 S A F E T Y F I R S T 1
HAZMAT Awareness
Foreword
Firefighters responding to an incident should always be prepared for the presence of
hazardous materials. Many of the materials found in common daily use have the potential to
present a hazard to health and or the environment. Hazardous materials, or hazmats as they
are commonly referred to, may be present in households or commercial properties.
Large quantities of these materials are regularly transported by road and rail. For this reason,
any incident has the potential to involve hazardous materials. From the time of first notification
and turnout, firefighters need to give consideration to what their first actions will be in the event
that they encounter hazardous materials at the incident scene.
Whenever the presence of a hazardous material at an incident is suspected, firefighters must
first consider:
what is this material?F
how can it affect me?F
how can I protect myself and others from it? andF
how can we deal with it?F
It is essential that firefighters do not make ill-informed decisions. If there is any doubt, it is
recommended that aggressive actions be deferred until expert advice is available.
Firefighters must always remember that the first responsibility in any situation involving
hazardous materials is safety the safety of firefighters and the safety of the community.
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Notes
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Edn 2 June 2008 S A F E T Y F I R S T 3
HAZMAT Awareness
Overview
Introduction
This learning manual has been developed
to provide you with the knowledge
required to protect emergency services
personnel and the public from exposure to
hazardous materials that may be present
at an incident. (Hazardous materials is
a generic term used to refer to an incidentinvolving dangerous goods and hazardous
substances.)
This manual contains information about:
HAZMAT legislation;F
hazardous materials information sources;F
identification of hazardous materials;F
assessing hazards and risks;F
safe storage and handling;F
responding to an incident whereF
hazardous materials are present; and
carrying out an emergencyF
decontamination.
This manual also contains:
self assessment exercises and/or activities;F
and
a glossary (a list of terms and acronymsF
used in this manual and their meanings).
Relationship to Competency
Standards
This material provides underpinning
knowledge associated with a unit of
competency in the Public Safety Training
Package July 2000 Ver. 4.00, specifically:
PUAFIR306A Render hazardousF
materials incidents safe.
For further information on the competency
standards refer to CFAs Brigades Online
website.
Outcomes
On successful completion of the HAZMAT
Awareness training, you will be able to:identify hazardous materials;F
use hazardous materials informationF
sources to identify appropriate initial
actions
assist with establishing hazard isolationF
zones; and
assist with the emergency decontaminationF
of victims.
Prerequisites
PUAOHS002A Maintain Safety at an
Incident Scene.
Co-requisites
Nil
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4 S A F E T Y F I R S T Edn 2 June 2008
HAZMAT Awareness
Overview
Related Resources
Further resources may be developedto support your learning. To identify the
resources available, search the Bookshelf on
the Brigades Online website using the title
and key terms from this publication.
The Bookshelf also contains the current CFA
policies and procedures. Familiarity with
these will enable you to appropriately apply
your learning.
How You Might Be Assessed
Below are some ideas of how a qualified
Assessor might assess your competence in
this unit. Use these sample assessments to
help prepare you for summative assessment.
You may be assessed by:
observation in a practical situation;F
answering oral questions or demonstratingF
knowledge and skill in a given situation;
in a written form; orF
a combination of the above.F
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Edn 2 June 2008 S A F E T Y F I R S T 5
HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 1
Emergency ManagementCFA has been identified as the control agency for incidents involving hazardous
substances or dangerous good. Most hazardous materials (hazmats) incidents are small
in nature and are easily handled by first responding crews with little need for extra or
outside assistance.
Occasionally, major incidents occur which present unusual hazards, span a large area
or involve a large number of fire service personnel and which therefore require input
and assistance from other agencies. Emergency management legislation ensures that
all emergency agencies involved in a HAZMAT response have clearly defined roles andresponsibilities and can work cooperatively during an emergency response.
This chapter covers:
classifying hazardous materials;F
the emergency management structure and relevant legislation; andF
the incident controller..F
Classifying HazardousMaterials
Dangerous goods
Dangerous goods are substances that
may be corrosive, flammable, explosive,
spontaneously combustible, toxic, oxidizing,
radiological, biological, water-reactive or
gases under pressure or liquified. These
goods can be deadly and can seriouslydamage property and the environment.
TheAustralian Dangerous Goods (ADG)
Code deals with transportation of dangerous
goods. The Dangerous Goods Act1985 deals
with the storage, handling and transportation
of dangerous goods in Victoria and provides
implementation of the ADG Code.
Hazardous substancesHazardous substances are substances with
the potential to harm health. They can be
gases, liquids or solids, and be either pure
substances or a mixture.
Hazardous substances are classified
according to their long- and short-term health
effects, while dangerous goods are classified
by their immediate physical and/or chemical
effects.
Be aware that substances not generally
thought of as being hazardous may become
an issue depending on the amount involved,
the quantity and/or location at the time of an
incident.
For example, a spilt load of milk may not
normally be thought of as a hazardous
materials incident.
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6 S A F E T Y F I R S T Edn 2 June 2008
HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 1: Emergency Management
However, when that milk is spilt inside a
sensitive ecosystem, such as a catchment
area, it will allow the bacteria to multiply asthey break down the milk. This process puts
a demand on the oxygen supply in the water.
Aquatic life and bacteria compete for
available oxygen and, as a result, the water
may be unable to support the aquatic life.
In this case, a load of material that is not
normally considered to be hazardous has,
because of its quantity and location, created
an incident.
Hazardous materials
The term hazardous materials includes
dangerous goods, hazardous substances,
scheduled poisons, listed wastes, radioactive
substances and environmental pollutants.
Hazardous materials are any substances
that are assessed by an emergency
service (based on information gathered) as
likely to endanger people, property or the
environment.
Hazardous materials incident
A hazardous materials incident involves the
actual or impending spillage or release of
a hazardous material, in sufficient quantity
to pose a danger to life, property or the
environment. A hazardous materials incident
may occur during manufacture, use,
handling, transport or storage of hazardous
materials.
Emergency Management
Structure
Emergency Management Act
The Emergency Management Act1986 is the
legislative power which calls for a State Emer-
gency Response Plan. The Act is supported by
the Emergency Management Manual Vic. The
Emergency Response Plan is a component of
the Emergency Management Manual Vic.
The Emergency Management Act1986
provides a legislative basis for integrated and
comprehensive prevention, response and
recovery planning, involving preparedness,
operational coordination and community
participation, in relation to all hazards.
It defines the emergency management
structure, assigns roles and responsibilities,
and provides for special needs concerned
with the management of emergencies. The
Act defines response as the controlling of
emergencies and the provision of rescue and
immediate relief services.
Control
Support
Section 3
Emergency
Management Manual Vic
Control
CFA Act
Emergency
HAZMAT
Emergency
Management Act
Section 20A Section 30
Incident
Who is in charge?
What amI allowed to do?
Figure 1 emergency management structure
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Edn 2 June 2008 S A F E T Y F I R S T 7
HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 1: Emergency Management
Emergency ManagementManual Vic
The Emergency Management Manual Vic
ensures that the prevention, response
and recovery components of emergency
management are organised within a
structure, which facilitates planning,
preparedness, operational coordination and
community participation.
It identifies the organisational arrangements
for managing the response to emergencies
within, or with the potential to affect, theState of Victoria and applies to all agencies
having roles or responsibilities in response to
those emergencies.
The coordinator of the State Emergency
Response Plan is the Chief Commissioner of
Police.
The powers of the Chief Commissioner are
delegated to a Police Officer on scene who
will coordinate all support.
Emergency response coordinators are
responsible for:
preparedness planning;F
liaison;F
ensuring appropriate control structure;F
coordinating requests for resources;F
community safety; andF
media liaison.F
Emergency response agencies are
designated by the Emergency Management
Manual Vic, in respect of particular types of
emergencies, as either control or support
agencies as per the table below.
EmergencyControl Agency
(may vary by location)Support Agencies
Accident
Aircraft Victoria PoliceAusSAR, ATSB, CFA/MFESB/
VICSES
Biological materials DHS Public Health
Boilers and pressure vessels CFA/MFESB WorkSafe
Hazardous materials ordangerous goods
CFA/MFESB EPA, WorkSafe
Lifts, cranes or scaffolding CFA/MFESB WorkSafe
Marine Victoria Police MBV
Military aircraft and ships Defence ForcesAusSAR, Victoria Police,
MFESB/CFA
Radioactive materials DHS Public Health EPA
Rail and tram Victoria PoliceODPT/VicTrack, CFA/MFESB/
VICSES
Road Victoria Police CFA/MFESB/VICSES, VicRoads
Fire and Explosion
Aircraft ARFS/CFA/MFESB ATSB
Explosion CFA/MFESB
Explosive device Victoria Police
Fire CFA/MFESB/DNRE Parks Victoria
Gas leakage CFA/MFESB Gas distribution companies
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HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 1: Emergency Management
Control agency
A control agency is the response agencynominated to control the response activities
for a specified type of emergency. In Part 6 of
the Emergency Management Manual Vic, CFA
has been identified as the control agency for
accidents involving hazardous materials or
dangerous goods.
Support agency
A support agency provides essential
services, personnel or material, to support
or assist a control agency, or another
support agency, or persons affected by an
emergency.
The role of support agencies at a hazardous
materials incident are as follows.
Victoria Police (VICPOL)F responsible for
coordinating the incident, including traffic
and crowd control, and evacuations if
necessary.
Ambulance Services, Victoria (MAS,F
RAV) responsible for providing
emergency medical intervention and
casualty transportation.
WorkSafe Victoria (Victorian WorkCoverF
Authority) determines industrys
compliance with legislation.
Environment Protection Authority (EPA)F
provides advice to the control authority
on the potential environmental impact.
The relevant water authorities for eachF
area provide the control authority with
adequate water supply and information
on the reticulated system.
State Emergency Service (SES)F
provides support to the control authority.
Technical specialistsF provide specialist
advice about chemicals, or containers of
chemicals, therefore assisting planning
and anticipating results.
Company representativesF provide
information about a particular workplace
and its hazards.
Department of Human Services (DHS)F
needs to be notified in the event of aradiological or biological incident.
CFA Act
CFA obtains its powers to respond to and
manage hazardous materials incidents
from the following sections of the CFA Act:
Sections 3, 20A, 30 and 97.
The Chief Officer has prepared StandardOperating Procedures for response to
hazardous materials incidents.
The following is a list of SOPs relevant to
HAZMAT (including CBR) incidents at the
time of publishing this manual:
5.03 Protective Equipment;F
9.08 Health Support Team (HST);F
9.31 Welfare of CFA Members;F
10.03 Asbestos Incidents;F
10.05 Bomb Incidents;F
10.06 Chemical Biological RadiologicalF
Response;
10.07 Clandestine Drug Laboratories;F
10.08 Disease and/or Pest Control F
Operations Involving;
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HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 1: Emergency Management
10.09 HAZMAT Response;F
10.13 Marine Response;F
10.15 Pollution Spills Into Inland Waters;F
11.01 Infection Control at Incidents;F
11.02 Medical Monitoring Biological andF
Hazardous Substances; and
11.03 Personal Protective Clothing.F
Incident Controller
The Crew Leader of the first arriving crew
assumes control as Incident Controller. The
Incident Controller is normally appointed by
the control agency. The Incident Controller
has the overall responsibility for emergency
response operations.
The appropriate Police coordinator should
be advised as soon as practicable of the
appointment of an overall Incident Controller.Discussion should include the initial assess-
ment of the potential of the incident and any
other immediate requirements.
The Incident Control Point will be the focus
for the inter-agency liaison for a small or
developing incident. For a large or complex
incident, involving numerous agencies, an
Incident Control Centre will be the focal point
for the inter-agency liaison.
The control structure should expand in
accordance with the principles of AIIMS, as
with every other type of incident.
CFA response to a HAZMAT incident is
covered in more detail in Chapter 3.
Figure 2 chain of command
CoordinationSupports incident control throughaccessing external resources
Agencies involved in incident
ControlOperates across agencies
Command
Commandoperatesvertically
withintheManagementStructure
IncidentManag
ement
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Edn 2 June 2008 S A F E T Y F I R S T 11
HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 1
Summary
Dangerous goods are substances thatF
may be corrosive, flammable, explosive,
spontaneously combustible, toxic,
oxidizing, radiological, biological or water
reactive.
Hazardous substances are substancesF
with the potential to harm health. They can
be gases, liquids or solids, and be either
pure substances or a mixture.
Hazardous materials include dangerousF
goods, hazardous substances, scheduled
poisons, listed wastes, radioactive sub-
stances and environmental pollutants.
TheF Emergency Management Act1986
is the legislative power, which calls for aState Emergency Response Plan.
TheF Emergency Management Manual Vic
identifies the organisational arrangements
for managing the response to emergencies
within, or with the potential to affect, the
State of Victoria.
Control agencyF agency nominated to
control response activities for a specified
type of emergency.
Support agencyF provides essential serv
ices, personnel, or material to support
or assist a control agency or another
support agency, or persons affected by an
emergency.
Support agencies at a hazardous materialsF
incident may include:
Victoria Police;
Ambulance Services, Victoria;
WorkSafe Victoria (Victorian WorkCover
Authority);
Environmental Protection Authority;
relevant water authorities for each area;
State Emergency Service;
technical specialists;
company representatives; and
Department of Human Services.
An Incident Controller has overallF
responsibility for emergency response
operations.
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Edn 2 June 2008 S A F E T Y F I R S T 13
HAZMAT Awareness
Figure A chemical drum floating down a creek Figure B workplace chemical spill
Chapter 1
Self Assessment
True or False ( box)
1 A hazardous materials incident involves the actual or impending spillage or release of a
hazardous material in sufficient quantity to pose a danger to life, property or the environment.
True False
2 The Emergency Management Act1986 does not provide a legislative basis for prevention,
response and recovery.
True False
3 A control agency is defined as the response agency nominated to control the response
activities for a specified type of emergency.
True False
4 The Incident Controller is responsible for the overall command and control of fire service
personnel only.
True False
Activity1 Identify the support agencies that may be required to assist with the following incidents:
i chemical drum floating down a creek (Figure A); and
ii workplace chemical spill (Figure B).
Discuss the answers with your Trainer.
If you require any assistance with this material see your Brigade Training Officer or Training Manager.
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HAZMAT Awareness
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Edn 2 June 2008 S A F E T Y F I R S T 15
HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 2
PreparednessBefore arriving on scene at an incident you may have already received information that
will assist you in determining your approach and the type of hazards you are likely to
encounter. Knowing the location of the incident and the environment involved, will allow
you to start to plan what action may need to be taken when you initially arrive on scene.
This chapter covers:
environment and occupancy;F
pre-incident plans;F
location of the incident;F
hazards at an incident;F
conducting a hazard assessment; andF
visual signs and indicators.F
Environment and Occupancy
The type of building involved and the
nature of the business being conducted
may provide some clues as to the type
and location of substances at the site. The
following are examples of buildings likely to
contain hazardous materials:
manufacturing plants;F
factories;F
hospitals;F
plant nurseries;F
hardware shops;F
swimming pool shops;F
petrol stations/depots;F
rural supply outlets;F
farms;F
warehouses;F
transport depots; andF
water treatment plants.F
Pre-incident Plan
A pre-incident plan should be drawn up
following a risk assessment of an identified
special risk within a brigade area. Pre-
incident plans may include informationabout:
the location, type and quantity ofF
dangerous goods or substances in the
immediate area;
the storage and use of these substances;F
manufacturing sites;F
transportation routes;F
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HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 2: Preparedness
communication procedures for accessingF
information about dangerous goods and
substances;
available resources; andF
SOPs.F
A current pre-incident plan for a site will
provide you with valuable information about
it and any materials contained within. Use the
pre-incident plan to guide your actions.
Remember, not all hazardous substances are
dangerous goods. When conducting a risk
assessment, do not limit yourself to simply
identifying dangerous goods class labels.
Location of the Incident
Past experience with transportation accidentsalso indicates where to expect hazardous
materials problems. Each mode of
transportation, such as highways, rail, water,
air, and pipeline, have particular locations
where frequent accidents occur.
Highways
Accidents are likely at, but not limited to, the
following places:
designated truck routes;F
blind intersections;F
Figure 3 type of map that may be found in a pre-incident plan
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Edn 2 June 2008 S A F E T Y F I R S T 17
HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 2: Preparedness
areas frequently congested by traffic;F
heavily travelled roads; andF
steep grades.F
Rail
Accidents are likely at, but not limited to, the
following places:
depots and terminals;F
steep grades and severe curves;F
shunts and sidings; andF
uncontrolled crossings.F
Water
Accidents are likely at, but not limited to, the
following places:
bridges and other crossings;F
piers, jetties, wharfs and docklands;F
loading stations; andF
treatment plants.F
Air
Accidents are likely at, but not limited to, the
following places:
fuelling ramps;F
repair and maintenance hangers; andF
freight terminals.F
Pipelines
Accidents are likely at, but not limited to, the
following places:
exposed crossings, over waterways orF
roads; and
pumping stations.F
Hazards at an Incident
Hazards that may be encountered at ahazardous materials incident include:
ThermalF hazards related to extremes
of temperature e.g. thermal harm
resulting in frostbite can be a problem
during exposures to the extremely low
temperatures associated with liquefied
gases and cryogenic substances.
MechanicalF hazards resulting from
direct contact with fragments scattered
because of container failure, explosion or
shock wave. Mechanical injuries are also
associated with unstable loads collapsing
or slipping near equipment. Mechanical
hazards may also include noise, which
makes communication difficult and may
cause long-term damage, and vibration,
which may cause equipment and tools to
move.
Toxic (poisonous)F substances liable to
cause either death, serious injury or harm
to human health if swallowed, inhaled or
absorbed through the skin e.g. many of
the agricultural and veterinary chemicals.
CorrosiveF substances which destroy
living tissue or cause chemical burns after
sufficient exposure e.g. acids and alkalies.AsphyxiantF hazards related to a lack of
oxygen supply from the lungs to the blood
stream e.g. inert gases.
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HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 2: Preparedness
RadiologicalF radiation sources that
can cause short- and long-term injury to
individuals and long-term genetic effectsto future generations e.g. radioactive
substances.
BiologicalF micro-organisms and viruses
that may cause disease.
Conducting a Hazard
Assessment
Assessing the hazards or potential hazards
(potential for human injury or damage
to property and/or the environment) at
an incident is a critical component of an
effective response. When assessing the
hazards, you should consider the following
points as outlined in the Dangerous Goods
Initial Emergency Response Guide:
is there a fire?F
is there smoke or fumes?F
is there a spill or leak? How large is it?F
are there casualties?F
is containment necessary?F
what are the local weather conditions,F
current and predicted?
what is the terrain like?F
what is at risk people, property or theF
environment?
how significant is the risk based on theF
situation, the hazards of the products
(from classes and subsidiary risks) and
their degree of danger (based on packing
groups)?
is public protection necessary?F
protect in place (keep the public withinF
buildings or other shelters) or evacuate?
what resources (human and equipment)F
are required and are readily available?
what management methods can be usedF
to minimise the effects and contain the
incident with the minimum of loss or
damage? and
what is the immediate danger zone?F
Note: Risk assessment is a dynamic process
and should be reviewed whenever the
situation changes.
START What is goingon and what
are thehazards?
1HAZARDS
What do Iplan to do?
2PLAN
What are therisk of what Iplan to do?
3RISKS
What can I doto make it
safe?
4SAFETY
What do Ineed tomonitor?
5MONITORING
Figure 4 the five step model for dynamic risk assessment
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Edn 2 June 2008 S A F E T Y F I R S T 19
HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 2: Preparedness
Visual Signs and Indicators
At some incidents involving hazardousmaterials there may not be any formal way to
identify the types of materials involved. While
most incident will be accidental, responders
may at some stage be confronted with a
deliberate or hostile release of a chemical,
biological or radiological materials. While the
possibility of a deliberate incident is low, the
consequence of such an incident would be
great. Responders would need to exerciseextreme care in these circumstances.
Tangible indicators that may assist in
identifying that hazardous materials are
involved in the incident include:
spreading vapour cloud;F
sight of fish, birds or insects dying in theF
vicinity; and
personnel displaying symptoms (e.g.Fdizziness and vomiting or victims
collapsed at the scene).
Indicators that can be seen or heard from
a distance and indicate that hazardous
materials may be involved include:
rainbow sheen on water surfaces;F
visible vapours over a volatile liquid;F
containers deformed by the force of anF
accident;
operation of pressure relief devices;F
pinging or popping of heat-exposedF
containers;
extraordinary fire conditions;F
distinctively coloured vapour clouds;F
smoking or self-igniting substances; andF
unexpected deterioration of equipment.F
When viewing the incident scene through
binoculars you may notice the following
indicators:
frost near a leak;F
spattering or boiling of unheatedF
substances;
peeling or discoloration of a containersF
finish; and
peculiar smells.F
Note: If you can see, hear or smell any of
these indicators, you are probably too close
to the incident.
Figure 5 indicator (from a distance)
Figure 6 indicator (close up using binocular)
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HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 2
Summary
Buildings likely to contain hazardousF
materials include:
manufacturing plants;
factories;
hospitals;
plant nurseries;
hardware shops;
swimming pool shops;
petrol stations/depots;
rural supply outlets;
farms;
warehouses;
transport depots; and
water treatment plants.
Pre-incident plans can provide additionalF
information to assist in conducting the
hazard assessment.
Frequent accidents involving hazardousF
materials occur on the following:
highways;
rail;
water;
air; and
pipelines.
Hazards that may be encountered at aF
hazardous materials incident include:
thermal;
mechanical;
toxic (poisonous);
corrosive;
asphyxiant;
radiological; and
biological.
Assessing the hazards or potential hazardsF
at an incident is a critical component for an
effective response.
Visual signs and chemical indicatorsFof hazardous substances that may be
noticed from a distance include:
rainbow sheen on water surfaces;
visible vapours over a volatile liquid;
containers deformed by the force of an
accident;
operation of pressure relief devices;
pinging or popping of heat-exposed
containers;
extraordinary fire conditions;
distinctively coloured vapour clouds;
smoking or self-igniting substances; and
unexpected deterioration of equipment.
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HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 2
Self Assessment
Short Answer
1 List three types of occupancy that are likely to contain hazardous materials.
i ...........................................................................................................................................
ii ...........................................................................................................................................
iii ...........................................................................................................................................
2 Describe the information you would expect to find in a pre-incident plan.
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................
3 List seven hazards that may be encountered at a hazardous materials incident.
i ...........................................................................................................................................
ii ...........................................................................................................................................
iii ...........................................................................................................................................
iv ...........................................................................................................................................
v ...........................................................................................................................................
vi ...........................................................................................................................................
vii ...........................................................................................................................................
4 List five factors that should be considered when conducting a hazard assessment.
i ...........................................................................................................................................
ii ...........................................................................................................................................
iii ...........................................................................................................................................
iv ...........................................................................................................................................
v ...........................................................................................................................................
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Chapter 2: Preparedness
5 List four pieces of information that the public or personnel may be able to inform you
about.
i ...........................................................................................................................................
ii ...........................................................................................................................................
iii ...........................................................................................................................................
iv ...........................................................................................................................................
6 List five indicators of hazardous material involvement at an incident.
i ...........................................................................................................................................
ii ...........................................................................................................................................
iii ...........................................................................................................................................
iv ...........................................................................................................................................
v ...........................................................................................................................................
If you require any assistance with this material see your Brigade Training Officer or Training Manager.
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Edn 2 June 2008 S A F E T Y F I R S T 25
HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 3
Responding to a HazardousMaterials Incident
Every incident to which you respond is potentially a hazardous materials incident until
determined otherwise. While no two hazardous materials incidents are the same, there
are a series of procedures that you can implement to protect yourself and the public from
exposure to hazardous materials.
This chapter covers:
approaching the scene;F
exposure hazards;F
decontamination;F
securing the scene; andF
establishing incident control.F
Approaching the SceneSuccess or failure in controlling a HAZMAT
incident will depend largely on the ability
of the Incident Controller to conduct, often
under adverse conditions, an effective size-
up of the situation.
Size-up involves the consideration of:
facts;F
probabilities;F
own situation;F
decision; andF
plan.F
In the initial stages of a response wherehazardous materials are suspected, you
should carefully consider:
what pre-incident plans are available;F
what information you have received aboutF
the incident;
what further information you require;F
whether the incident is endangering life orF
property;
what the current local weather conditionsF
are, for example
wind direction and strength;
temperature (hot or cold); and
rain;
what the topography is like flat,F
undulating, porous;
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Chapter 3: Responding to a Hazardous Materials Incident
the environment flora, fauna, waterF
courses and atmosphere;
what the most appropriate direction is fromF
which to approach the incident;
utility services, communication pits,F
sewerage and storm water; and
support identified in pre-plans.F
Information provided by public or
personnel on scene
Information provided by eye witnesses or
other personnel at the incident or scene,
including other emergency or support
services may assist in size-up. Ensure
they are not contaminated and do not
contaminate you.
These people may be able to inform you
about:
events leading up to the incident;F
substances involved;F
substance location;F
emergency procedures already initiated;F
location of personnel involved; andF
location of emergency information.F
When receiving information from any of these
sources, you should record details receivedand if possible validate their accuracy. This
information will assist the crew leader in
planning the response.
Initial considerations
It is important to remember that HAZMATproducts present unique hazards requiring
specialist equipment and response
techniques. If an incident is not approached
in the correct way, and the vehicle is placed
too close to the site or in a downwind
position, then the crew may become
casualties and the vehicle may become
involved in the incident.
Firefighters responding to a HAZMATincident:
must never rush into action;F
unnecessarily expose themselves toF
HAZMAT products; or
use the body senses such as taste, smellF
or touch to assist in identifying dangerous
goods and/or dangerous substances.
The Incident Controller will conduct a
size-up on arrival at an incident and this
will determine the actions of emergency
personnel throughout the response.
In a hazardous materials incident, an
immediate aggressive attack may not
be appropriate. Firefighters or other
responders should resist the urge to
rush in and commence rescue or fire
suppression activities. Strategies such as
RECEO (Rescue, Exposures, Confinement,
Extinguishment and Overhaul) should be
used with caution in a hazardous materials
incident.
Note: Remember that every incident is
potentially a hazardous materials incident
unless otherwise determined.
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HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 3: Responding to a Hazardous Materials Incident
General precautions
To ensure safety there are a number ofgeneral precautions that should be observed
at any suspected HAZMAT incident. The
acronyms RISK and DANGER are used
to remind emergency personnel of these
precautions when approaching a hazardous
material incident:
RISKF
Recognise.
Identify/isolate.
Secure.
Keep out.
DANGERF
Dont enter smoke, gas or vapour clouds.
Approach carefully.
No closer than 70 m.
Gather information, using binoculars.
Examine further, only if necessary with
protective clothing.
Retreat if necessary.
The accurate identification of hazardous
materials at an incident is critical to an
effective response. There are various
methods for identifying dangerous goodsand hazardous substances.
To conduct a safe approach, you should
comply with the following points.
Approach the scene using care andF
caution. Approach from upwind and from
high ground whenever possible to avoid
coming into contact with hazardous areas.
At all times, follow the correct procedures
for identifying hazardous materials. It is not
appropriate to use your senses to identify
a hazard. If you are close enough to
smell, feel or hear a problem, then you are
possibly too close to an incident.
Keep a safe distance.F Remain at least
70 m from the scene until you have
clearly identified the hazard potential.
Should you enter closer, you may become
contaminated by toxic substances, smoke
or vapour clouds, or be exposed to other
dangers, and run the risk of becoming a
casualty. All resources, including people
and vehicles, need to be kept at a safe
distance to minimise the possibility of
contamination.
Identify the dangerous goods byF
indirect means from a safe distance,
where possible.Check labels and
placards and safety information boards
(which may document evacuation routes,
areas of high hazard and their locations).
These will indicate:
whether dangerous goods are indeed
involved;
the possible class of good(s);
UN number;
correct shipping or trade name; and
HAZCHEM code.
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If it is a mixed load or storage, these
documents will indicate the combination
of classes of dangerous goods. Checkingby indirect means will also ensure that
you remain at a safe distance and are
not exposed to any potentially harmful
substances.
Note: Always assume that the most
hazardous materials in the load or store are
involved in the incident.
By assuming that the most hazardousmaterials in the load or store are involved
in the incident, the precautions taken will
ensure the safety of all involved. When
identifying the products, always access
available sources of information such as
plant managers, technical specialists,
drivers of the transport vehicle, etc.
Assess the hazardsF (such as toxic fumes)
and the risks (ignition source) involved and
notify your Communications Centre of the
safest route, if any, for other responding
appliances, emergency services and
resources required.
Follow the principle of least exposure:F
expose the least number of people;
expose people for the least amount of
time;
expose people to the least amount of
material; and
wear the appropriate levels of protective
clothing and equipment.
For all people, the principle of least
exposure will mean NIL exposure.
Often hazardous materials situations are
made worse by rushing in. Attempting
to do something without knowledge,
planning or appropriate equipment
can result in serious or critical injuries,
and lead to difficulties in controlling the
incident.
Figure 7 firefighter identifying HAZMATfrom a safe distance
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HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 3: Responding to a Hazardous Materials Incident
Exposure Hazards
You can be exposed to hazards directly orindirectly.
Direct exposure hazards
Hazardous materials can contaminate a
person through the following routes of
exposure:
inhalation;F
absorption;F
ingestion;F
injection; orF
radiation.F
Inhalation of hazardous materials
Contamination via inhalation occurs with the
entry of vapours or toxic substances into
the body through the respiratory system.It is often the most damaging because
substances can enter the blood stream
immediately upon entering the lungs and
exert toxic effects on other organs. Inhalation
is the most common exposure route and
the lungs in particular can sustain damage
through inhalation.
Avoiding exposure
To prevent the inhalation of hazardous
materials it is critical that breathing apparatus
(BA) equipment is used when working
in hazardous, or potentially hazardous,
atmospheres.
In addition to BA the following precautions
should be observed:
maintain a safe distance;F
utilise position uphill/upwind;F
know the hazmats properties e.g. vapourF
density (heavier/lighter than air); and
consult Safety Data Sheets (previouslyF
referred to as Material Safety Data
Sheets)/guidebooks for approximate safe
distances.
Absorption of toxic substances
Toxic substances can enter the body through
the pores of the skin, through the eyes and
especially through mucous membranes.
Cuts and abrasions can also provide waysfor toxins to enter the body.
Note: Absorption can occur without the
firefighters knowledge
Avoiding exposure
To prevent the absorption of toxic substance
through the skin, eyes or mucous
membranes, emergency personnel must
wear the correct level of PPE for the type of
hazardous materials involved in the incident
(gloves, boots, goggles, splash suit, gas
suit and breathing apparatus). Goggles are
essential to prevent absorption through the
eyes where liquids, vapours or gases are
involved.
Note: Certain chemicals can adhere contact
lenses to the surface of the eye.
In addition the following precautions should
be observed:
maintain a safe distance;F
utilise position uphill/upwind;F
know the hazmats properties e.g. specificF
gravity (will it float on water), will it dissolve
in water (miscible/soluble);
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Chapter 3: Responding to a Hazardous Materials Incident
remain outside spill area;F
avoid touching bare skin; andF
do not rub the eyes.F
Ingestion of toxic substances
Toxic substances can be ingested (enter the
body) through the mouth.
Avoiding exposure
To prevent the ingestion of toxic substances
emergency personnel should not eat, drinkor smoke at incidents involving hazardous
materials.
In addition the following precautions should
be observed:
avoid exposure by wearing appropriateF
protection;
consider personal hygiene; andF
dont drink or eat until properlyFdecontaminated.
Note: If ingestion occurs, read SDS/
guidebooks for action to take and seek
immediate urgent medical attention.
Injection of toxic substances
Toxic substances can be injected into the
body via contaminated sharp objects such
as metal syringes and via high-pressure
sources such as compressed air.
Avoiding exposure
To prevent the accidental injection of toxic or
biologically contaminated substances into
the body the correct protective clothing must
be worn.
In addition the following precautions should
be observed:
avoid unnecessary contact with sharpF
objects;
wear double gloves;F
dispose of sharps correctly; andF
cover sharp objects and jagged edges.F
Exposure to radiation
Radiation emission levels vary from very
low to very high. The degree of injury to a
person from radiation varies with the type of
radiation, amount of exposure and whether it
is a one-time exposure or an accumulation ofexposures. Injuries from excessive exposure
may not become apparent for days, weeks,
months or even years.
Avoiding exposure
Radiation (protection must include):
minimum exposure time;F
keep a safe distance;F
use appropriate shielding;F
use specialised personal protectiveF
clothing and equipment; and
seek technical specialist advice.F
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HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 3: Responding to a Hazardous Materials Incident
Indirect exposure hazards
Indirect hazards include:
temperature extremes;F
noise;F
dehydration (prolonged gas suit wearing);F
fatigue, physical and mental (includingF
critical incident stress);
claustrophobia (from working in confinedF
spaces);
blast pressure waves;F
vibration; andF
oxygen depleted or enriched atmospheres.F
Forms of exposure
Exposure can take two forms:
acute exposure usually has a toxic effectF
on the victim over a short period of time,may or may not cause instant death; and
chronic exposure this is more long-termF
and usually includes industry workers
exposed over a long period of time.
You should be alert to any symptoms of
acute exposure. These symptoms may
include the following:
changes in respirationF
difficultyin breathing, increase or decrease in
respiration rate, tightness of the chest,
irritation of the nose and throat, and/or
respiratory arrest;
changes in consciousnessF dizziness,
light-headedness, drowsiness, confusion,
fainting and/or unconsciousness;
abdominal distressF nausea, vomiting
and/or cramping;
changes in activity levelF fatigue,
weakness, stupor, hyperactivity,
restlessness, anxiety, giddiness and/or
faulty judgement;
visual disturbancesF double vision,
blurred vision, cloudy vision, burning of the
eyes and/or dilated or constricted pupils;
skin changesF burning sensations,
chemical burns, lesions, ulcers, reddening,paleness, fever and/or chills;
changes in excretion or thirstF
uncontrolled tears, profuse sweating,
mucus flowing from the nose, diarrhoea,
frequent urination, bloody stool and/or
intense thirst; and
painF headache, muscle ache, stomach
ache, chest pain and/or localised pain at
sites of substance contact.
Note: Personnel or members of the public
exposed to hazardous substances or
dangerous goods (or displaying symptoms
of acute exposure) must call for immediate
urgent medical attention.
Not all chemical exposures result in
immediate symptoms. Many symptoms may
not appear until hours, days, weeks or longerafter the exposure. Some symptoms may not
be apparent to the person suffering them,
but may be observed by unaffected persons.
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Chapter 3: Responding to a Hazardous Materials Incident
HEADsolvent, heat exhaustion, eyestrain, noise, gases, vapours
EARSExcessive noise
CHEST & LUNGScotton dust, TDI, detergent
enzymes, beryllium, solvents,long-term exposure to mineral dust(e.g. asbestos), metal oxides from
welding, gases, vapours
STOMACH & INTESTINESvapours, fumes,
ingested substances
BONESexcessive vibration,constant dampness
SKINsolvents, epoxies, oil, fibreglass,
caustic soda, nickel, mineral oils,arsenic, pitch, tar, radiation
EYESsmoke, grease, fumes, acids,
ultraviolet radiation
NOSE AND THROATammonia, caustic soda, dust,resins, solvents
MUSCLES & BACKexcessive or improper lifting
REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEMlead, pesticides, radiation,polystyrene production, xylene,some solvents, benzene, mercury,anaesthetic gas
NERVOUS SYSTEMnoise, shift work, metal poisoninge.g. lead, mercury
HEADdizziness, headache
EARSringing, temporary deafness,
hearing loss
CHEST & LUNGSwheezing, congestion, shortness
of breath on mild exercise, flu-like
symptomsSTOMACH & INTESTINES
vomiting, diarrhoea
BONESarthritis
SKINredness, dryness, itching,
ulcers, skin cancer
EYESredness, irritation, watering, grainyfeeling, welders flash
NOSE AND THROATsneezing, coughing, sore throat,nasal cancer
MUSCLES & BACKsoreness, strain
REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEMmiscarriage, irregularities inmenstruation, damage to foetus orchromosomes, sterilization
NERVOUS SYSTEMstress, nervousness,irritability, sleeplessness,
tremors, speech changes
How does yourbody react?
What can affect
your body?
Figure 8 the effects of various substances on the body
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HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 3: Responding to a Hazardous Materials Incident
Decontamination
There are four levels of decontamination thatmay be used in responding to HAZMAT/CBR
incidents.
Level 1 emergency decontamination;
Level 2 emergency services
decontamination;
Level 3 mass decontamination; and
Level 4 bulk decontamination systems.
The size of the incident, the numbers of
victims and the types of hazardous materials
involved in the incident will determine the
required level of decontamination response
that is needed.
Level 1 emergency decontamination may
be undertaken by first responders at the
scene while waiting for HAZMAT specialist
personnel and equipment to arrive.
Levels 2 4 decontamination techniques
are undertaken by HAZMAT response
specialists.
In the event of a HAZMAT incident, casualties
may be sufficiently mobile to exit the
contaminated area without assistance. In
these instances, first responders on-scene
may need to perform a Level 1 emergencydecontamination.
The decontamination equipment available to
do this will generally be limited to whatever
is present on the first responders appliance
e.g. hose lines and hose reels.
Note: First responders who are not part of a
specialized HAZMAT response team should
not enter contaminated areas.
Emergency decontaminationprinciples
Emergency decontamination incorporates
the following principles:
strip;F
wash; andF
cover.F
Once a casualty has been decontaminated,
first aid can be performed and medical
attention provided if required.
Emergency decontamination
procedure
When carrying out an emergency
decontamination, adhere to the following
procedure in order to minimize the spread of
contaminants:
isolate the risk to prevent furtherF
casualties;
exit victims to an emergencyF
decontamination area;
disrobe the victim down to their underwearF
(bag and tag clothing);
wash the victim by flushing with water;F
apply emergency first aid if required;F
cover the victim with blanket or otherF
clothing to prevent hypothermia and
provide them a degree of dignity;
seek medical attention; and,F
record details of any personnel exposed toF
contaminants.
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Using available equipment, the firefighter can
perform an emergency decontamination as
shown below.
During emergency decontamination, large
volumes of water should be used; however,
high pressure water spray must be avoided
to prevent damage to the eyes or skin.
Although speed is essential to remove or
reduce the risk to persons who have become
accidentally contaminated, it is important that
fire service personnel rendering assistance
do not themselves become seriously affected
by the same hazards through failure to wear
appropriate protective clothing and breathing
apparatus.
Caution should be taken not to spread the
contaminant to unaffected areas.
Emergency first aid
The aim of emergency first aid is to provide
immediate treatment to exposed persons
without exposing emergency workers.
Note: First aid should not be attempted until
the casualty has been decontaminated.
Securing the Scene
Where the presence of a hazardous materialis suspected, the operational priority is to
isolate the scene and deny entry. Securing
the scene in this way is necessary for
gaining control of the incident and protecting
emergency personnel and the public. Two
steps should be followed:
Step 1 isolate the affected area.F
This involves determining which area
is immediately affected or at risk, thenisolating it, removing all persons in the
area. In most incidents, once the situation
has been assessed and appropriate advice
taken, there is no need for further action to
protect the public other than establishing
this zone.
An initial isolation zone can be established
using barrier tape or other suitable
materials to create an outer perimeteraround the HAZMAT scene. The Initial
Emergency Response Guide (IERG)
details suitable distances for the perimeter
based on the type of hazardous material
involved.
Note: Personnel or members of the public
should not be permitted to pass through
this outer perimeter into the isolation
zone without the approval of the incident
controller.
Figure 9 wetting disrobed victim
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HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 3: Responding to a Hazardous Materials Incident
Step 2 take protective action.F
Further action may sometimes be
necessary to protect the public fromthe risks associated with more severe
incidents. These risks may include fire,
explosion, smoke, fumes or toxic gases.
Evacuation is not the only available option
and, for the majority of dangerous goods
incidents, it may not be the preferred
option.
The options are protect in place (keep the
public inside buildings) and evacuate.
Protect in place
In the protect in place strategy, the public is
immediately directed inside a building and
advised to remain indoors until the danger
passes. Always consider this option because
of its simplicity and ease of implementation.
It requires less human resources than
evacuation.
Houses and other enclosed buildings can
provide a source of uncontaminated air,
which may give protection for a considerable
time. Some contaminated air will penetrate,
but the level of contamination will be
significantly less than outside.
As poisoning is a factor of both concentration
and exposure time, there is normally less risk
staying indoors, than outdoors.
Protect in place is the preferred option for
many fires or spillages, since the danger to
the public has often reached its maximum
before the emergency services arrive. In
such cases, attempting an evacuation will
unnecessarily increase the publics exposure
to smoke or fumes.
Protect in place if:
there is not enough time to evacuate theF
public before the hazard affects the area;
and
the incident and hazard are likely to beF
short duration (up to an hour or so).
Do not protect in place if:
the fumes or vapours present a risk ofF
explosion or a danger to health;
it will take a long time for the fumes toF
clear the area; and
the buildings cannot be tightly closed.F
If the decision is taken to protect in place,
then the public should be advised to:
close all doors and windows, using blindsF
and curtains if fitted;
shut off all ventilating, heating and coolingF
systems;
remain in the side of the building furthestF
from the incident; and
tape or seal the gaps in or aroundF
windows, doors and ventilation ducts
before the smoke or fumes become
uncomfortable.
If there is a continued release of smoke
or fumes over a long period, it may benecessary to organise a systematic
evacuation through the contaminated
atmosphere. The initial protect in place
decision will, however, allow time to muster
the resources needed for a full systematic
evacuation.
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After the smoke or fumes have dispersed
from the area, the buildings will retain
contaminated air. As soon as the area ismade safe, advise the sheltering public to
move outside and ventilate their buildings.
Evacuate
In an evacuation, the public is moved
from a threatened area to a safer place. It
is not sufficient to simply move them and
allow them to congregate at the incident
perimeter. Move them by a specific route
to a definite location where they will not
need to be moved again if the wind shifts or
circumstances change.
To perform an evacuation, there must be
enough time for the public to be warned to
prepare to leave the area. Generally, if there
is enough time, evacuation is likely to be the
best protective option. However, evacuation
requires time and human resources. It may
place those being evacuated at risk and
cause them suffering and stress.
Evacuation is the preferred option if:
there is an immediate threat of fire,F
explosion or building collapse;
there is time to evacuate before aF
threatening toxic gas leak occurs;
it will take a long time for the fumes toF
clear from the area; or
the buildings will not provide suitable inF
place protection.
An evacuation requires a coordinated
response and, depending on the size of the
incident, may involve the:
Police;F
State Emergency Service;F
MERO Municipal Emergency ResponseF
Officer; and
Red Cross for registration purposes.F
Establishing Incident ControlAn Incident Control Point (ICP) must be set
up at a hazardous materials incident. The
size of the ICP will vary according to the size,
duration and severity of the incident. When
establishing an ICP, the following factors
must be considered:
it must be a suitable distance away fromF
the scene so that it is free from possible
contamination;
it must be easily identifiable so that crewsF
and other emergency services arriving at
an incident can quickly locate its position;
and
it must be within radio range of theF
incident.
The ICP must also be accessible to other
emergency services. They may need to
establish their own incident command
centres to coordinate their role. It is desirable
that the control centres, if not immediately
adjacent, are accessible to each other.
Incident planning takes into account the
extended roles of other agencies throughout
the duration of an incident.
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HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 3: Responding to a Hazardous Materials Incident
Control zones
After the first responding emergencypersonnel have isolated the incident,
control zones can be set up. These zones
(hot, warm and cold) define the areas of
involvement and areas of potential spread.
An outline of the three zones is illustrated
below. They can be marked using natural
or man-made barriers, restricted area tape,
hoses or rope.
All three zones are defined and controlled bythe Incident Controller. The size of each zone
depends on the extent and severity of the
incident, and the physical layout of the area.
Note: Control zones are usually established
after sufficient specialist resources have
arrived on scene.
In some instances, gas detection equipment
might be required to determine the actual
area of the zone.
Note: The actual layout and shape of the
zones will be determined by wind direction,
topography and the physical layout of the site.
Hot zone an area of likely contamination,
usually situated on the edge of the incident
where contaminant levels are consideredsufficiently high to threaten life and
safety. Only personnel equipped with the
appropriate PPE and other equipment may
enter.
Warm zone an area immediately
surrounding the hot zone where
decontamination commences. Near the
boundary of the hot zone, contaminants may
still be at a level that can pose an exposure
risk to unprotected personnel.
Cold zone an area immediately
surrounding the warm zone. Access to the
cold zone is restricted to support agencies.
Site control, casualty treatment area and
marshalling/assembly areas are generally
established in the cold zone.
Establishing control zones generally require
additional personnel, the use of protective
clothing, decontamination procedures and
air monitoring instruments.
Be aware that direct action to control the
incident before adequate resources are in
attendance (including technical information
or specialist advice) may make the situation
worse. Once sufficient information andresources are available, you must conduct a
safe approach and then take the appropriate
control actions.
Figure 10 isolation perimeter and control zones
WARM ZONE
HOTZONE
COLDZONE
INCIDENT
CONTROL
STAGING
DECONTAMINATION
INITIALISOLATIONZONE
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Notes
38 S A F E T Y F I R S T Edn 2 June 2008
HAZMAT Awareness
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HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 3
Summary
The success or failure in controlling aF
HAZMAT incident will depend largely on
the ability of the Incident Controller to
conduct a size-up of the situation.
The public or personnel on-scene mayF
inform you about:
events leading up to the incident;
substances involved;
substance location;
the location of personnel involved;
emergency procedures already in place;
and
location of emergency information.
Fire suppression activities and strategiesF
such as RECEO should be used with
caution at a hazardous materials incident.
When responding to any hazardousF
materials incident it is important that you
conduct a safe approach.
To conduct a safe approach you should:F
approach the scene using care and
caution;
keep a safe distance (70 m);
identify the dangerous goods by indirect
means from a safe distance;
assess the hazards; and
follow the principle of least exposure.
Hazardous materials can contaminateF
people through:
inhalation;
absorption;
ingestion;
injection; and
radiation.
Exposure can:F
have a toxic effect on the victim over a
short period of time (acute exposure)
may or may not cause instant death; or
be more long-term (chronic exposure),
such as industry workers exposed over
a long period of time.
There are four levels of decontaminationF
adopted by the fire services:
Level 1 emergency decontamination;
Level 2 emergency services
decontamination;
Level 3 mass decontamination; and
Level 4 bulk decontamination systems.
The principles of emergencyF
decontamination for a victim are:
strip;
wash; and
cover.
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40 S A F E T Y F I R S T Edn 2 June 2008
HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 3: Responding to a Hazardous Materials Incident
Once a casualty has beenF
decontaminated, first aid can be
performed and medical attention providedif required.
Securing the scene is necessary forF
gaining control of an incident and
protecting the public. Two steps should be
followed:
Step 1 isolate the affected area.
Step 2 take protective action.
The options for protective action are:F
protect in place; and
evacuate.
At a hazardous materials incident, anF
Incident Control Point (ICP), must be set
up to monitor operations and coordinate
firefighters and other emergency
personnel at the scene.
During the early stages of an incident it isF
important to establish control zones.
An initial isolation zone can be establishedF
using barrier tape or other suitable
materials to create an outer perimeter
around the HAZMAT scene.
Establishing control zones generallyF
require additional personnel, the use
of protective clothing, decontamination
procedures and air monitoring
instruments.
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HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 3
Self Assessment
Short Answer
1 List five considerations in the initial stages of a response where hazardous materials are
suspected.
i ...........................................................................................................................................
ii ...........................................................................................................................................
iii ...........................................................................................................................................
iv ...........................................................................................................................................
v ...........................................................................................................................................
2 In relation to scene approach what do the following acronyms mean?
R ...........................................................................................................................................
I ...........................................................................................................................................
S ...........................................................................................................................................
K ...........................................................................................................................................
and
D ...........................................................................................................................................
A ...........................................................................................................................................
N ...........................................................................................................................................
G ...........................................................................................................................................
E ...........................................................................................................................................
R ...........................................................................................................................................
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42 S A F E T Y F I R S T Edn 2 June 2008
HAZMAT Awareness
Chapter 3: Responding to a Hazardous Materials Incident
3 List seven precautions you can take to avoid exposure at a hazardous materials incident.
i ...........................................................................................................................................
ii ...........................................................................................................................................
iii ...........................................................................................................................................
iv ...........................................................................................................................................
v ...........................................................................................................................................
vi ...........................................................................................................................................
vii ...........................................................................................................................................
4 List five symptoms of chemical exposure.
i ...........................................................................................................................................
ii ...........................................................................................................................................
iii ...........................................................................................................................................
iv ...........................................................................................................................................
v .............................................................